1953 MG TF 1250 Roadster

The most desirable T-Series of all was also the last traditional MG, the TF of 1953. Introduced as something of a stop-gap whilst development of the new MGA continued, the TF subtly modernised the square-rigger lines of its predecessors, the TC and TD, with a slight rake for the radiator, front headlamps integrated into the wings, revised rear-end styling but details like the fold-flat ?screen and separate wings harked back to the vintage era. Inside there was a new dashboard with three octagonal dials and new seats while the unpopular pressed-steel disc wheels of the TD were ditched in favour of the traditional wires.

Mechanically the TF was essentially unchanged from the previous model, although the 1250cc XPAG engine was replaced by the 1500cc XPEG mid-way through the production run of 9,800 cars, most of them going to the United States. The TF is a blast to drive on winding country roads, the superbly weighted rack and pinion steering and predictable handling combine to make every trip an experience to savour. Throw in the thriving MG club scene, numerous local specialists and the ease with which one can work on the TF, and you have a most rewarding classic MG.